Systematic review on molecular detection of congenital and neonatal infections caused by TORCH and SARS-CoV-2 in newborns' cerebrospinal fluid / Revisáo sistemática sobre deteção molecular de infecções congênitas e neonatais causadas por TORCH e SARS-CoV-2 no líquido cefalorraquidiano de recém-nascidos

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the use and identify advantages of molecular methods for congenital infections diagnosis in cerebrospinal fluid of neonates. Data source: The review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), under CRD42021274210. The literature search was performed in databases: PubMed, Virtual Health Library/ Latin American and Caribbean Center on Health Sciences Information (VHL/BIREME), Scopus, Web of Science, Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE), Cochrane, ProQuest, and EBSCOhost. The search was carried out from August to October 2021 and updated in December 2022, respecting the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The selection sequence was: 1) Duplicate title removal; 2) Examination of titles and abstracts; 3) Full-text retrieval of potentially relevant reports; and 4) Evaluation of the full text according to eligibility criteria by two independent authors. Inclusion criteria considered randomized and non-randomized control trials, longitudinal, cross-sectional, and peer-reviewed studies in humans, published in English, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese, with newborns up to 28 days old who had congenital neuroinfections by toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex (TORCH), and others such as Treponema pallidum, Zika, parvovirus B-19, varicella zoster, Epstein-Barr, and SARS-CoV2, diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Two evaluators extracted the following information: author, year of publication, nationality, subjects, study type, methods, results, and conclusion. Data synthesis: The most studied pathogen was herpes simplex. Several articles reported only nonspecific initial symptoms, motivating the collection of cerebrospinal fluid and performing PCR for etiological investigation. Conclusions: Molecular methods are effective to detect pathogen genomes in cerebrospinal fluid, which can impact clinical evolution and neurological prognosis.

RESUMO Objetivo: Verificar a utilização e identificar as vantagens dos métodos moleculares para diagnóstico de infecções congênitas no líquido cefalorraquidiano de neonatos. Fontes de dados: A revisão foi registrada na base PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) sob CRD42021274210. A busca bibliográfica foi realizada nas bases de dados PubMed, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde/ Centro Latino-Americano e do Caribe de Informação em Ciências da Saúde (BVS/BIREME), Scopus, Web of Science, Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE), Cochrane, ProQuest, e EBSCOhost. A busca foi feita no período de agosto a outubro de 2021 e atualizada em dezembro de 2022, respeitando as orientações do Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews e Meta-Analyises (PRISMA). A sequência da seleção dos estudos foi: 1) Remoção de duplicatas; 2) Exame de títulos e resumos; 3) Recuperação dos textos completos potencialmente relevantes; e 4) Avaliação do texto completo conforme critérios de elegibilidade por dois autores independentes. O critério de inclusão considerou ensaios clínicos randomizados e não randomizados, estudos longitudinais, transversais, revisados por pares, estudos em humanos, publicados em inglês, espanhol, italiano e português, com recém-nascidos de até 28 dias que sofreram neuroinfecções congênitas pelos agentes toxoplasmose, rubéola, citomegalovírus, herpes simples (TORCH), e outros como Treponema pallidum, Zika, parvovírus B-19, varicela zoster, Epstein-Barr, e SARS-CoV-2, diagnosticadas por reação em cadeia de polimerase (PCR). Dois avaliadores extraíram as seguintes informações: autor, ano de publicação, nacionalidade, sujeitos, tipo de estudo, métodos, resultados e conclusão. Síntese dos dados: O patógeno mais estudado foi Herpes Simples. Muitos artigos relataram somente sintomas iniciais inespecíficos, motivando a coleta de líquido cefalorraquidiano e realização da PCR para investigação etiológica. Conclusões: Os métodos moleculares são eficazes para detectar o genoma do patógeno no líquido cefalorraquidiano, o que pode impactar na evolução clínica e no prognóstico neurológico.

Protein profile of purified plasma- and aqueous humor-derived extracellular vesicles from patients with ocular toxoplasmosis

ABSTRACT Purpose: To characterize the extracellular vesicle protein cargo in the aqueous humor and plasma of patients with ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods: Aqueous humor and plasma were collected from six patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis and six patients with cataract. Extracellular vesicles were isolated, and western blotting and mass spectrometry were performed for protein analysis. Results: All plasma samples from patients with ocular toxoplasmosis and cataract were positive for the tetraspanins CD63 and TSG101. However, the aqueous humor from patients with ocular toxoplasmosis was positive only for CD63. Sixty-seven new unreported proteins were identified in the aqueous humor and plasma of patients with the ocular toxoplasmosis and cataract. Of the 67 proteins, 10 and 7 were found only in the cataract and ocular toxoplasmosis groups, respectively. In general, these proteins were involved in immune system activation and retina homeostasis and were related to infections and retina-associated diseases. Conclusion: The distinct protein signatures between ocular toxoplasmosis and cataract may be helpful in the differential diagnosis of ocular toxoplasmosis. However, more studies are needed to better understand the role of these proteins in the pathogenesis of ocular toxoplasmosis.

Seroprevalencia de toxoplasmosis en gestantes y recién nacidos: estudio de serologías IgG e IgM en un periodo de 4 años / Seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women and newborns: study of IgG and IgM serologies over a 4-year period

RESUMEN Introducción: la toxoplasmosis es una parasitosis que causa infecciones graves en inmunocomprometidos y recién nacidos. El estado serológico de la madre influye en la posibilidad de transmisión al feto si la infección es contraída durante el embarazo. Es necesario conocer la prevalencia de esta afección en gestantes como primer paso para realizar acciones tendientes a conocer la carga real de la enfermedad y disminuir esta patología. Objetivo: Determinar la seroprevalencia IgG e IgM de toxoplasmosis de gestantes y recién nacidos periodo de enero 2017 a enero 2021. Metodología: se incluyeron las gestantes en su periodo periparto inmediato y recién nacidos hasta la semana de vida extrauterina. Se midió IgG e IgM en sangre periférica por método ECLIA. El tamaño muestral calculado fue de 800 por grupo, para el periodo de estudio. Muestreo no probabilístico de casos consecutivos. Resultados: fueron incluidos 2524 recién nacidos y 2029 gestantes. Las prevalencias de IgG fueron de 97,5 % y 97 % para gestantes y recién nacidos respectivamente, y la IgM: 4,7% y 1,9 % para mujeres y recién nacidos respectivamente. Las tendencias de las seroprevalencias se mantuvieron constantes para IgG para ambos grupos, mientras que la IgM presentó una leve tendencia al aumento. Conclusiones: la seroprevalencia de IgG fue cercana al 100 % en ambas poblaciones, probablemente debido a la transferencia transplacentaria de IgG, sin embargo, se nota un porcentaje pequeño de IgM, probable marcador de infección aguda.

ABSTRACT Introduction: toxoplasmosis is a parasitosis that causes serious infections in immunocompromised patients and newborns. The serological status of the mother influences the possibility of transmission to the fetus if the infection is contracted during pregnancy. It is necessary to know the prevalence of this condition in pregnant women as a first step to carry out actions aimed at knowing the real burden of the disease and reducing this pathology. Objective: determine the IgG and IgM seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women and newborns from January 2017 to January 2021. Methodology: pregnant women in their immediate peripartum period and newborns up to one week of extrauterine life were included. IgG and IgM were measured in peripheral blood by the ECLIA method. The calculated sample size was 800 per group, for the study period. Results: 2524 newborns and 2029 pregnant women were included. The prevalence of IgG was 97.5 % and 97 % for pregnant women and newborns, respectively, and IgM: 4.7 % and 1.9% for women and newborns, respectively. The seroprevalence trends remained constant for IgG for both groups, while IgM showed a slight increasing trend. Conclusions: IgG seroprevalence was close to 100% in both populations, probably due to the transplacental transfer of IgG, however, a small percentage of IgM was noted, a probable marker of acute infection.

Suspected new syndrome: idiopathic chronic systemic inflammatory dryness � a case report

The current article discusses a peculiar and identifies an atypical autoimmune disease termed as the idiopathic chronic systemic inflammatory dryness. In the reported case, the clinical signs are to some extent identical to Sjogren抯 syndrome with dry eyes, dry mouth and dry vagina but the biomarkers are negative for it. On the other hand, the biomarker for systemic sclerosis is positive but no clinical signs or symptoms of it were present. The present case also has a probable association with history of toxoplasmosis. The article is of utmost importance in the discourse of development and research of concurrent immunology and understanding of autoimmune diseases.

Seroprevalence and factors associated with toxoplasmosis among pregnant women attending antenatal care clinic at a tertiary teaching hospital in Uganda: a cross-sectional study

Background: Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii and is progressively increasing in pregnancy mainly with age and if left undiagnosed and untreated, can result into several adverse pregnancy outcomes. In Uganda, there is a paucity of information about toxoplasmosis in pregnancy. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and factors associated with toxoplasmosis among pregnant women attending antenatal care clinic at a Tertiary hospital in Uganda.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out from July 2022 to October 2022. 165 pregnant women were consecutively enrolled. Data gathered for analysis were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Blood samples were taken and test of Toxoplasma gondii specific IgG and IGM was done using EUROIMMUN ELISA test kits as instructed by manufacturer. Data was analyzed using STATA version 14.2. A bivariate and multivariate analysis were used to show the association between the dependent and independent variables considering p?0.05 at 95% confidence interval.Results: The overall seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnancy was 16.4%. Age >35 years old (aOR: 8.36; 95% CI: 1.809-38.71; p=0.007), having contact with cats (aOR: 3.55; 95% CI: 1.258-10.01; p=0.017), drinking untreated water (aOR=4.08; 95% CI:1.237-13.46; p=0.021) and HIV status (aOR=8.91; 95% CI: 1.419-56.03; p=0.020) were independently associated with toxoplasmosis infection.Conclusions: The overall seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnancy was low as compared to the global seroprevalence. There is a need to educate pregnant women about the transmission routes and preventive measures of toxoplasmosis at antenatal care.

Guías Latinoamericanas de Infecciones Congénitas y Perinatales de la Sociedad Latinoamericana de Infectología Pediátrica (SLIPE). Parte II / Latin American Guidelines on Congenital and Perinatal Infections from the Latin-American Society of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (SLIPE). Part II

Las infecciones perinatales son una causa de morbilidad, tanto fetal como neonatal, y que compromete la salud de la mujer embarazada, por lo que su diagnóstico, tratamiento, e intento de eliminación son una prioridad en América Latina y el Caribe. Este documento representa la segunda entrega realizada por expertos en la región dentro de la Sociedad Latinoamericana de Infectología Pediátrica (SLIPE), brindando una mirada actualizada en el manejo de las infecciones congénitas y entrega herramientas para detectar posibles momentos estratégicos de intervención y cambio en el manejo de las infecciones congénitas.

Perinatal infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the fetus, neonate, and the health of the pregnant woman. Diagnosis, treatment, and the search for elimination of these diseases are a priority in Latin America and the Caribbean. This document represents the second delivery by a group of experts in the region inside the Latin-American Society of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (SLIPE), presenting a up-to-date look into the management of congenital infectious diseases and give a tool to detect possible strategic sceneries and a change in the management of congenital infections in our region.

Perceptions and feelings of pregnant women undergoing outpatient follow-up for toxoplasmosis

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis persists as a neglected disease and poses a challenge to public health, especially due to the risk of vertical transmission, which can lead to countless biological complications for the newborn and to psychological and emotional repercussions for the mother. Objective: To understand the perceptions and feelings of pregnant women affected by toxoplasmosis undergoing outpatient follow-up. Materials and Methods: A qualitative and exploratory study developed with 12 women with gestational toxoplasmosis undergoing specialized outpatient follow-up in a municipality from the state of Paraná, Brazil. The data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews and subjected to content analysis, supported by descending hierarchical classification. Results: The pregnant women experienced situations ranging from diagnosis and treatment to preventing the disease in the child and family. These experiences generated fear, distress and uncertainty about the disease, which were not adequately addressed during prenatal assistance in primary care. However, the pregnant women emphasized the importance of the multiprofessional team at the secondary level in monitoring and health education. Discussion: Although the pregnant women felt confident about the treatment and its implications for the child's health, discovering the diagnosis impacted their everyday lives and those of their families, especially due to lack of reliable information about toxoplasmosis and to the absence of emotional support at the primary level. Conclusions: There was a temporary scenario of disinformation among these women, who were not properly guided and supported. However, the guidelines offered in secondary health care were essential for improving knowledge and practices in health.

Seroprevalencia de Toxoplasma gondii y su relación con trastornos mentales en adultos / Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and its Relationship with Mental Disorders in the Adult Population

El Toxoplasma gondii es un parásito que se encuentra, aproximadamente, en el 30 % de la población humana. Durante los últimos años se ha evidenciado que la infección latente puede ser un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de trastornos mentales; particularmente para la esquizofrenia, ansiedad, trastornos bipolares y trastornos de conducta. La asociación con los trastornos neuropsiquiátricos pueden explicarse por la influencia que tiene el parásito sobre la expresión de múltiples neurotransmisores; entre ellos la dopamina. Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos PubMed y SciELO de 2015 a 2023, se seleccionaron artículos originales y de revisión de revistas científicas internacionales, en idiomas inglés y español con el objetivo de describir la relación entre la seroprevalencia de T. gondii y el desarrollo de trastornos mentales en población adulta. Existe relación entre los trastornos mentales en la población adulta con la infección por Toxoplasma gondii y este aumenta la posibilidad de desarrollar esquizofrenia y depresión en individuos sin historial previo, y que podría exacerbar cuadros psiquiátricos previos con dificultad en el tratamiento. Sin embargo, no todos los datos estadísticos establecen una relación directa, algunos estudios demuestran una asociación, ciertos datos son discordantes, lo que abre una puerta para futuras investigaciones.

Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite that is found in approximately 30 % of the human population. In recent years, it has been shown that latent infection can be a risk factor for the development of mental disorders; particularly schizophrenia, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and conduct disorders. The association with neuropsychiatric disorders can be explained by the influence of the parasite on the expression of multiple neurotransmitters; among them, dopamine has received the most attention. A narrative bibliographic review article was done with the search of original and review articles in international scientific journals, in English and Spanish listing the relationship between the seroprevalence of T. gondii and the development of mental disorders in the adult population. The relationship between mental disorders in the adult population with Toxoplasma gondii infection is present and increases the possibility of developing schizophrenia and depression in individuals with no previous history, including the ability to worsen previous psychiatric conditions, making it difficult for standard management. Not all statistical data establish a direct relationship, some studies show an association and certain data are discordant, which opens a door for future research.

Preliminary observation on the development and dynamic changes of chronic toxoplasmosis in mice / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To investigate the development and dynamic changes of cysts in the brain of mice following infection with different forms of Toxoplasma gondii, so as to provide insights into for toxoplasmosis prevention and control. Methods ICR mice at ages of 6 to 8 weeks, each weighing 20 to 25 g, were intraperitoneally injected with tachyzoites of the T. gondii PRU strain at a dose of 1 × 105 tachyzoites per mouse, orally administered with cysts at a dose of 20 oocysts per mouse or oocysts at a dose of 200 oocysts per mouse for modeling chronic T. gondii infection in mice, and the clinical symptoms and survival of mice were observed post-infection. Mice were orally infected with T. gondii cysts at doses of 10 (low-dose group), 20 (medium-dose group), 40 cysts per mouse (high-dose group), and the effect of different doses of T. gondii infections on the number of cysts was examined in the mouse brain. Mice were orally administered with T. gondii cysts at a dose of 20 cysts per mouse, and grouped according to gender (female and male) and time points of infections (20, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180 days post-infection), and the effects of gender and time points of infections on the number of cysts was examined in the mouse brain. In addition, mice were divided into the tachyzoite group (Group T), the first-generation cyst group (Group C1), the second-generation cyst group (Group C2), the third-generation cyst (Group C3) and the fourth-generation cyst group (Group C4). Mice in the Group T were intraperitoneally injected with T. gondii tachyzoites at a dose of 1 × 105 tachyzoites per mouse, and the cysts were collected from the mouse brain tissues 30 days post-infection, while mice in the Group C1 were orally infected with the collected cysts at a dose of 30 cysts per mouse. Continuous passage was performed by oral administration with cysts produced by the previous generation in mice, and the effect of continuous passage on the number of cysts was examined in the mouse brain. Results Following infection with T. gondii tachyzoites, cysts and oocysts in mice, obvious clinical symptoms were observed on days 6 to 13 and mice frequently died on days 7 to 12. The survival rates of mice were 67.0%, 87.0% and 53.0%, and the mean numbers of cysts were (516.0 ± 257.2), (1 203.0 ± 502.0) and (581.0 ± 183.1) in the mouse brain (F = 11.94, P < 0.01) on day 30 post-infection with T. gondii tachyzoites, cysts and oocysts, respectively, and the numbers of cysts in the brain tissues were significantly lower in mice infected with T. gondii tachyzoites and oocysts than in those infected with cysts (all P values < 0.01). The survival rates of mice were 87.0%, 87.0% and 60.0%, and the mean numbers of cysts were (953.0 ± 355.5), (1 084.0 ± 474.3) and (1 113.0 ± 546.0) in the mouse brain in the low-, medium- and high-dose groups on day 30 post-infection, respectively (F = 0.42, P > 0.05). The survival rates of male and female mice were 73.0% and 80.0%, and the mean numbers of cysts were (946.4 ± 411.4) and (932.1 ± 322.4) in the brain tissues of male and female mice, respectively (F = 1.63, P > 0.05). Following continuous passage, the mean numbers of cysts were (516.0 ± 257.2), (1 203.0 ± 502.0), (896.8 ± 332.3), (782.5 ± 423.9) and (829.2 ± 306.0) in the brain tissues of mice in the T, C1, C2, C3 and C4 groups, respectively (F = 4.82, P < 0.01), and the number of cysts was higher in the mouse brain in Group 1 than in Group T (P < 0.01). Following oral administration of 20 T. gondii cysts in mice, cysts were found in the moues brain for the first time on day 20 post-infection, and the number of cysts gradually increased over time, peaked on days 30 and 90 post-infection and then gradually decreased; however, the cysts were still found in the mouse brain on day 180 post-infection. Conclusions There is a higher possibility of developing chronic T. gondii infection in mice following infection with cysts than with oocysts or tachyzoites and the most severe chronic infection is seen following infection with cysts. The number of cysts does not correlate with the severity of chronic T. gondii infection, and the number of cysts peaks in the mouse brain on days 30 and 90 post-infection.

Catarata congênita nas infecções intrauterinas mais comuns (STORCH): revisão de literatura / Congenital cataract in the most common intrauterine infections (STORCH): a review of the literature

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi revisar os aspectos clínicos e patológicos da catarata congênita secundária às infecções por sífilis, toxoplasmose, rubéola, citomegalovírus e herpes simples. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão de literatura, na qual foram incluídos artigos de periódicos indexados às bases de dados PubMed®, Cochrane, Lilacs, Embase e SciELO de 2010 a 2023. Resultados: Foram encontrados 45 artigos, e, após seleção, restaram 9 artigos. Além disso, foram adicionados artigos para enriquecer a discussão. A infecção por sífilis está relacionada a alterações corneanas. O citomegalovírus e a toxoplasmose estão relacionados com a coriorretinite e/ou microftalmia. A rubéola é responsável por causar catarata, glaucoma, microftalmia e retinite em sal e pimenta. Conclusão: Foram abordadas as principais etiologias infecciosas e seu quadro clínico na CC. O melhor tratamento para CC é cirúrgico associado a acompanhamento clínico, mas a prevenção é a maneira mais eficaz de combater a CC de etiologia infecciosa. O diagnóstico precoce e o tratamento efetivo previnem alterações e sequelas visuais irreversíveis. Nesse contexto, mostram-se importantes as ações de políticas públicas para o melhor desfecho clínico e melhor qualidade de vida.

ABSTRACT Objective: To review the clinical and pathological aspects of CC secondary to infections by syphilis, toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex. Methods: This is a literature review. Articles from journals indexed to PubMed, COCHRANE, LILACS, EMBASE and SCIELO from 2010 to 2023 were included. Results: A total of 45 articles were found, which, after selection, remained in 9 articles. Some articles were included to enrich the discussion in this topic. The infection caused by syphilis is related to corneal changes. Cytomegalovirus and Toxoplasmosis due to chorioretinitis and/or microphthalmia. Rubella is responsible for causing cataracts, glaucoma, microphthalmia, and salt and pepper retinitis. Conclusion: The main infectious etiologies and their clinical status in CC were addressed. The best treatment for CC is surgery associated with clinical follow-up, but prevention is the most effective way to combat CC of infectious etiology. Early diagnosis and effective treatment prevent irreversible visual changes and sequelae. In this context, public policy actions are important for the best clinical outcome and better quality of life.

Calcified cerebral toxoplasmosis associated with recurrent perilesional edema causing neurological manifestations in an HIV-infected individual: case report with a decade-long follow-up

ABSTRACT Four cases of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) with calcified cerebral toxoplasmosis associated with perilesional edema causing a single episode of neurological manifestations have recently been reported. Here, we describe the first detailed description of perilesional edema associated with calcified cerebral toxoplasmosis causing three episodes of neurological manifestations in a PLWHA, including seizures in two of them. These recurrences occurred over approximately a decade. Throughout this period, the patient showed immunological and virological control of the HIV infection, while using antiretroviral therapy regularly. This case broadens the spectrum of an emerging presentation of calcified cerebral toxoplasmosis, mimicking a well-described finding of neurocysticercosis in immunocompetent hosts.

Toxoplasmosis outbreak in São Paulo, Brazil: Epidemiology and visual outcome

ABSTRACT Purpose: To describe a 2019 acute toxoplasmosis outbreak in the city of São Paulo, Brazil, and to evaluate the laboratory serological profile for toxoplasmosis for three consecutive years. The ophthalmological manifestations of the patients involved in the outbreak were also studied. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study of a toxoplasmosis outbreak in São Paulo, Brazil, between February and May 2019. Epidemiological data were described, as were the observed ocular manifestations. As part of this study the number of patients with positive IgM toxoplasmosis serology was obtained from a large laboratory network (DASA) for three consecutive years, including the year of the outbreak (2018, 2019, 2020). Results: Eighty-three individuals were identified in the outbreak and two clusters were studied. The clinical picture of at least 77% of the patients, the epidemiological analysis, and the short incubation period (5-8 days) suggested contamination by oocysts. Serological laboratory data analysis revealed an increase of positive toxoplasmosis IgM in 2019 of 73% compared to the previous year. Ophthalmological examination revealed that at least 4.8% of the patients developed toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis, none of whom had been treated during the acute systemic disease. Conclusion: Our findings indicate vegetable contamination as the possible source of this outbreak, a high prevalence of toxoplasmosis in São Paulo during the outbreak period, and a drop in the number of tests during the COVID-19 pandemic. Retinochoroiditis was observed in at least 4.8% of the cases. We confirm the need to implement effective means for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease. This may involve raising awareness among the population of the importance of vegetable hygiene, and improved quality control of food and water.

Evaluation of different cut-off points for IgG avidity and IgM in the diagnosis of acute toxoplasmosis in pregnant women participating in a congenital toxoplasmosis screening program

ABSTRACT The main social impact of toxoplasmosis stems from its ability to be vertically transmitted. Postnatally acquired infection is generally asymptomatic in approximately 70-90% of cases, making diagnosis often dependent on laboratory tests using serological methods to search for anti-T. gondii antibodies. This study aimed to investigate the ability of the VIDAS TOXO IgG avidity and VIDAS TOXO IgM assays to confirm recent toxoplasmosis. In total, 341 pregnant women with suspected acute toxoplasmosis were systematically monitored in the Program for Control of Congenital Toxoplasmosis in Minas Gerais State, Brazil. We conducted an observational analytical-descriptive cross-sectional study and grouped according to clinical and laboratory criteria as having acute or chronic toxoplasmosis. The VIDAS TOXO IgG avidity and VIDAS TOXO IgM assays were evaluated to investigate the capacity to identify acute infection. IgG avidity showed good performance in identifying acute toxoplasmosis when the IgG avidity index was lower than or equal to 0.1. Values greater than or equal to 3.16 according to the TOXO IgM kit were associated with a greater chance of acute infection. These results may contribute to a more adequate diagnosis of acute gestational toxoplasmosis and, consequently, the avoidance of inadequate or unnecessary treatments.

Seroprevalence and risk factors for Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in dairy cattle from São Paulo State, Brazil / Soroprevalência e fatores de risco para Neospora caninum e Toxoplasma gondii em bovinos leiteiros do Estado de São Paulo

Abstract Neospora caninum is a major cause of reproductive loss in cattle worldwide as it leads to abortion and animal repositioning. Although Toxoplasma gondii does not cause a reproductive problem in cattle, consuming raw or uncooked beef poses the risk of transmission. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of anti-N. caninum and anti-T. gondii antibodies in dairy cattle in the West and Northwest regions of São Paulo State, Brazil. A total of 653 serum samples from dairy cows were analyzed using an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Epidemiological data from the farms were associated with the serological results of the animals by logistic regression based on the presence of antibodies. The frequencies of the antibodies against N. caninum and T. gondii were 41.6% (272/653) and 11.5% (75/653), respectively. A statistically significant association was observed between: the serum anti-N. caninum antibodies and breed, history of food supplementation for calves, introduction of outside animals that later presented reproductive problems, and history of reproductive problems by the trimester of gestation. The present study highlights the importance of neosporosis in dairy cattle in the study regions and that the inclusion of this parasite in the investigation of animals with reproductive disorders is important.

Resumo Neospora caninum é uma das principais causas de perda reprodutiva em bovinos em todo o mundo, pois leva ao aborto e ao reposicionamento animal. Embora o Toxoplasma gondii não cause problemas reprodutivos em bovinos, o consumo de carne bovina crua ou não cozida apresenta risco de transmissão. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-N. caninum e anti-T. gondii em bovinos leiteiros nas regiões Oeste e Noroeste do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Um total de 653 amostras de soro de bovinos leiteiros, foi analisado utilizando-se o ensaio de imunofluorescência indireta (IFI). Os dados epidemiológicos das propriedades foram associados aos resultados sorológicos dos animais por meio de regressão logística. As frequências dos anticorpos contra N. caninum e T. gondii foram 41,6% (272/653) e 11,5% (75/653), respectivamente. Foi observada associação estatisticamente significativa entre: soropositividade para N. caninum e raça, histórico de suplementação alimentar para bezerros, introdução de animais externos que, posteriormente, apresentaram problemas reprodutivos e histórico de problemas reprodutivos no segundo trimestre de gestação. O presente estudo destaca a importância da neosporose em bovinos leiteiros, nas regiões de estudo, e a inclusão deste parasita na investigação de animais com distúrbios reprodutivos é fundamental.

Chronic Toxoplasma gondii infection is associated with decreased working memory performance in women / Infecção crônica por Toxoplasma gondii está associada à diminuição de desempenho da memória de trabalho em mulheres

Objective The present study sought to investigate changes in mood, inhibitory control, and working memory associated with T. gondii infection in a sample of Brazilian women. Method Twenty-eight female participants were equally distributed into two groups, according to the serology for chronic infection by T. gondii. The participants answered a Sociodemographic questionnaire, the CES-D, and performed Simon and N-Back tasks. Results Infected participants presented less accuracy and longer response time in N-Back tasks. No significant differences were found in the Simon task performance or in the depression levels. Conclusion Our findings suggest that chronic infection by T. gondii may result in impaired working memory and point out the importance of public policies aiming at preventing this infection.

Objetivo O presente estudo investigou alterações de humor, controle inibitório e memória de trabalho associadas à infecção por T. gondii em uma amostra de mulheres brasileiras. Método Vinte e oito participantes foram distribuídas igualmente em dois grupos de acordo com a sorologia para infecção crônica por T. gondii. As participantes responderam a um questionário sociodemográfico, à CES-D e realizaram as tarefas Simon e N-Back. Resultados As participantes infectadas apresentaram menor acurácia e maior tempo de resposta na tarefa N-Back. Nenhuma diferença significativa foi encontrada na tarefa Simon ou na escala de depressão. Conclusão Nossos achados sugerem que a infecção crônica por T. gondii pode resultar em comprometimento da memória de trabalho, e apontam para a importância de políticas públicas de prevenção dessa infecção.

Biological screening for congenital toxoplasmosis in newborns from Jataí, Goiás, Brazil: a cross-sectional study / Cribado biológico de la toxoplasmosis congénita en recién nacidos de Jataí, Goiás, Brasil: un estudio transversal / Triagem biológica de toxoplasmose congênita em recém-nascidos de Jataí, Goiás: um estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Objective: To conduct a serological screening for toxoplasmosis in the heel prick test and to evaluate its epidemiological aspects in newborns and postpartum women in Jataí, Goiás. Method: Cross-sectional epidemiological study for the biological screening of newborns in Jataí, Goiás. Results: The study participants amounted to 228 newborns, whose samples were collected between the third and seventh day of life. IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii were detected in 40.79% (93/228) of the samples; out of these, 23.6% (22/93) had high IgG antibody titers, leading to the collection of two other peripheral blood samples and the detection of a decrease in these titers. Conclusion: The findings show the importance of strengthening actions in primary health care to prevent infection and training health professionals in this area to equip them with information regarding cases of reinfection and reactivation of infection in pregnant women, minimizing risks for babies.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Realizar un cribado serológico de la toxoplasmosis en la prueba del talón y evaluar sus aspectos epidemiológicos en los recién nacidos y puérperas en Jataí, Goiás. Método: Estudio epidemiológico transversal para el cribado biológico de los recién nacidos en Jataí, Goiás. Resultados: Participaron en el estudio 228 recién nacidos, cuyas muestras fueron recolectadas entre el tercer y séptimo día de vida. Se detectaron anticuerpos IgG contra Toxoplasma gondii en el 40,79% (93/228) de las muestras; de ellos el 23,6% (22/93) presentaban títulos elevados de anticuerpos IgG y de ellos se recogieron otras dos muestras de sangre periférica; se detectó una disminución de estos títulos. Conclusión: Los hallazgos muestran la importancia de fortalecer las acciones en la atención primaria de salud para prevenir la infección y capacitar a los profesionales de la salud en esta área para dotarlos de información sobre los casos de reinfección y reactivación de la infección en mujeres embarazadas, minimizando los riesgos para los bebés.

RESUMO Objetivo: Realizar a triagem sorológica da toxoplasmose no teste do pezinho e avaliar os aspectos epidemiológicos em recém-nascidos e puérperas de Jataí, Goiás. Método: Estudo epidemiológico transversal para a triagem biológica de recém-nascidos em Jataí, Goiás. Resultados: Participaram desta pesquisa 228 recém-nascidos, sendo coletadas amostras entre o terceiro e o sétimo dia de vida. Foram detectados anticorpos IgG anti Toxoplasma gondii em 40,79% (93/228) das amostras; destes, 23,6% (22/93) apresentaram altos títulos de anticorpos IgG e tiveram outras duas amostras de sangue periférico coletadas, sendo verificada a diminuição desses títulos. Conclusão: Tais achados demonstraram a importância do fortalecimento de ações junto à atenção primária à saúde para a prevenção da infecção, assim como a capacitação de profissionais da saúde que atuam nesta área, para que sejam munidos de informações referentes a casos de reinfecção e reativação da infecção em gestantes, minimizando os riscos para os bebês.

Prevalencia de baja avidez de Inmunoglobulina G anti Toxoplasma gondii y comportamiento de riesgo para toxoplasmosis en embarazada / Prevalence of low avidity of anti-Toxoplasma gondii immunoglobulin G and risk behavior for toxoplasmosis in pregnant women

Introducción: la toxoplasmosis es una infección zoonótica producida por Toxoplasma gondii, protozoo intracelular que puede afectar al hijo de la mujer embarazada y causar severas secuelas por lo que el monitoreo serológico debe ser realizado. Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia de baja avidez IgG anti Toxoplasma gondii y el comportamiento de riesgo para la enfermedad de toxoplasmosis en mujeres que estuvieron embarazadas durante el período 2017-2019 que acudieron al Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Nacional de Asunción-Paraguay. Metodología: fueron analizadas 371 fichas de pacientes con serología IgG positiva para toxoplasmosis cuyas muestras fueron procesadas en el Departamento de Producción del Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud entre los años 2017-2019. Posteriormente, en el año 2020, se realizó 149/371 encuestas digitales de en estas mismas mujeres sobre conocimiento y comportamiento de riesgos para Toxoplasmosis. Resultados: se observó una prevalencia de 18 % de baja avidez para toxoplasmosis. A partir de la encuesta se encontró el 98 % conoce la enfermedad, el 73 % adquirió información durante el embarazo y el 50,3 % recibió orientación de prevención, además, el 65 % refirió como formas de transmisión comer carnes mal cocidas y verduras crudas. En cuanto al comportamiento de riesgo 46 % consume de aguatería, 20 % consume carne a punto medio y 78 % vegetales crudos. El 54 % realiza actividad de cultivo, tienen mascotas como gatos 4,3 %, perros 82 %, además el 9 % refirió dormir con sus mascotas. Conclusión: la prevalencia de baja Avidez en la población estudiada fue del 18 %. Se evidenció algunos comportamientos de riesgo para la toxoplasmosis en las mujeres encuestadas, por lo que se demuestra la necesidad de aplicar programas de prevención primaria en nuestro país.

Introduction: toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii, an intracellular protozoan that can affect children of pregnant women and cause severe sequelae; therefore, serological monitoring should be performed. Objective: to determine the prevalence of low avidity IgG anti-Toxoplasma gondii and the risk behavior for toxoplasmosis disease in pregnant women during the 2017-2019 time period, who attended the Health Sciences Research Institute of the Universidad Nacional de Asuncion - Paraguay. Methodology: a total of 371 patient records with positive IgG serology for toxoplasmosis, whose samples were processed in the Production Department of the Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud between the years 2017-2019 were analyzed. Subsequently, in 2020, 149/371 digital surveys of the same women were conducted on their knowledge and risk behavior for toxoplasmosis. Results: a low avidity prevalence of 18 % for toxoplasmosis was observed. 98 % knew about the disease, 73 % acquired information during pregnancy, and 50.3 % received preventive orientation. 65 % reported that eating undercooked meat and raw vegetables is a form of disease transmission. Regarding risk behavior, 46 % of the participants consumed poultry, 20 % consumed medium-rare-cooked meat, and 78 % consumed raw vegetables. Fifty-four percent of the patients performed farming activities, 44.3 % had cats as pets, 82 % had dogs, and 9 % slept with their pets. Conclusion: some risk behaviors for toxoplasmosis were evident in the women surveyed, demonstrating the need to implement primary prevention programs in our country.

Prevalencia de baja avidez de Inmunoglobulina G anti Toxoplasma gondii y comportamiento de riesgo para toxoplasmosis en embarazada

Introducción: la toxoplasmosis es una infección zoonótica producida por Toxoplasma gondii, protozoo intracelular que puede afectar al hijo de la mujer embarazada y causar severas secuelas por lo que el monitoreo serológico debe ser realizado. Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia de baja avidez IgG anti Toxoplasma gondii y el comportamiento de riesgo para la enfermedad de toxoplasmosis en mujeres que estuvieron embarazadas durante el período 2017-2019 que acudieron al Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Nacional de Asunción-Paraguay. Metodología: fueron analizadas 371 fichas de pacientes con serología IgG positiva para toxoplasmosis cuyas muestras fueron procesadas en el Departamento de Producción del Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud entre los años 2017-2019. Posteriormente, en el año 2020, se realizó 149/371 encuestas digitales de en estas mismas mujeres sobre conocimiento y comportamiento de riesgos para Toxoplasmosis. Resultados: se observó una prevalencia de 18 % de baja avidez para toxoplasmosis. A partir de la encuesta se encontró el 98 % conoce la enfermedad, el 73 % adquirió información durante el embarazo y el 50,3 % recibió orientación de prevención, además, el 65 % refirió como formas de transmisión comer carnes mal cocidas y verduras crudas. En cuanto al comportamiento de riesgo 46 % consume de aguatería, 20 % consume carne a punto medio y 78 % vegetales crudos. El 54 % realiza actividad de cultivo, tienen mascotas como gatos 4,3 %, perros 82 %, además el 9 % refirió dormir con sus mascotas. Conclusión: la prevalencia de baja Avidez en la población estudiada fue del 18 %. Se evidenció algunos comportamientos de riesgo para la toxoplasmosis en las mujeres encuestadas, por lo que se demuestra la necesidad de aplicar programas de prevención primaria en nuestro país.

Introduction: toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii, an intracellular protozoan that can affect children of pregnant women and cause severe sequelae; therefore, serological monitoring should be performed. Objective: to determine the prevalence of low avidity IgG anti-Toxoplasma gondii and the risk behavior for toxoplasmosis disease in pregnant women during the 2017-2019 time period, who attended the Health Sciences Research Institute of the Universidad Nacional de Asuncion - Paraguay. Methodology: a total of 371 patient records with positive IgG serology for toxoplasmosis, whose samples were processed in the Production Department of the Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud between the years 2017-2019 were analyzed. Subsequently, in 2020, 149/371 digital surveys of the same women were conducted on their knowledge and risk behavior for toxoplasmosis. Results: a low avidity prevalence of 18 % for toxoplasmosis was observed. 98 % knew about the disease, 73 % acquired information during pregnancy, and 50.3 % received preventive orientation. 65 % reported that eating undercooked meat and raw vegetables is a form of disease transmission. Regarding risk behavior, 46 % of the participants consumed poultry, 20 % consumed medium-rare-cooked meat, and 78 % consumed raw vegetables. Fifty-four percent of the patients performed farming activities, 44.3 % had cats as pets, 82 % had dogs, and 9 % slept with their pets. Conclusion: some risk behaviors for toxoplasmosis were evident in the women surveyed, demonstrating the need to implement primary prevention programs in our country.

Frecuencia de toxoplasmosis y su relación con el diagnóstico clínico de pacientes que asistieron al Instituto SELADIS entre enero 2021 y julio 2022 / Frequency of toxoplasmosis and its relationship with the clinical diagnosis of patients attending the SELADIS Institute between January 2021 and July 2022

Introducción . La toxoplasmosis es una zoonosis parasitaria que compromete al ser humano y muchas otras especies de vertebrados, provocada por el agente etiológico Toxoplasma gondii. Objetivo . El objetivo del presente estudio es determinar la frecuencia de toxoplasmosis en muestras de pacientes atendidos en el Instituto SELADIS (*) durante el período de enero de 2021 a julio de 2022, además de su relación con el diagnóstico clínico que incluyen las solicitudes de pruebas. Materiales y métodos . Se consideraron 290 pruebas de pacientes con requerimiento de anticuerpos IgG e IgM anti-Toxoplasma gondii, utilizando la prueba de ELISA (comercial). Resultados . Se encontró que la frecuencia de anticuerpos IgM contra T. gondii fue del 7.24 % (21/290) y de anticuerpos IgG contra T. gondii, del 33.1 % (96/290). En relación con la edad, se observó que en pacientes adultos (mayores de 31 años) la frecuencia fue mayor (IgM: 4.14% % e IgG: 23.8%). El 6.9% de los pacientes tenían un diagnóstico relacionado con patología ocular, el 6.21% eran mujeres embarazadas y entre ellas la seropositividad para anticuerpos IgG fue del 24.64%; y para IgM fue del 8.70% (primer trimestre 2.90% y segundo 4.35%). La seropositividad para anticuerpos IgG, en pacientes trasplantados renales, fue del 1.4% y para IgM del 0%. En pacientes con adenomegalia, el 2.4% fueron positivos para IgG y el 0.69% para IgM. Conclusión . En conclusión, se encontró que la frecuencia de anticuerpos contra toxoplasmosis en la población de estudio fue de 33.1% para IgG y 7.24% para IgM. En relación con el diagnóstico clínico, se encontró que los tres principales escenarios de salud son (en orden descendente de importancia) para el Ac IgG contra toxoplasmosis: patología ocular, el embarazo y adenomegalias. En cambio, la relación con el diagnóstico de estos tres escenarios para el Ac IgM contra toxoplasmosis, son: el embarazo, patología ocular y adenomegalias.

Introduction . Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic zoonosis disease that affects humans and many other vertebrate species, and is caused by the etiological agent known as Toxoplasma gondii. Objective . The aim of this study is to determine the frequency of toxoplasmosis in samples from patients who were assisted in the SELADIS Institute (*) in the period between January 2021 and July 2022, in addition to its relation to the clinical diagnosis including requested tests. Materials and methods . 290 samples from patients were considered that also required IgG and IgM anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies, using an ELISA assay (commercial kit). Results. The frequency of IgM antibodies against T. gondii was 7.24% (21/290) and IgG antibodies against T. gondii were 33.1% (96/290). In relation to age, it was observed that in adult patients (over 31 years of age) the frequency was higher (IgM: 4.14%, IgG: 23.8%). 6.9% of the patients had a diagnosis related to ocular pathology, 6.21% were pregnant women and among them the seropositivity for IgG antibodies was 24.64%; and for IgM it was 8.70% (first trimester 2.90% and second 4.35%). The seropositivity for IgG antibodies in kidney transplant patients was 1.4% and 0% for IgM. In patients with adenomegaly, 2.4% were positive for IgG and 0.69% for IgM. Conclusion . In conclusion, it was found that the frequency of antibodies against Toxoplasmosis in the study population was 33.1% for IgG and 7.24% for IgM. In relation to clinical diagnosis, it was found that the three main health scenarios are (in descending order of importance), for IgG Ab against toxoplasmosis: ocular pathology, pregnancy and adenomegaly. Besides this, it was found that the relation of these three scenarios diagnoses to IgM Ab against toxoplasmosis are: pregnancy, ocular pathology and adenomegaly.

Insulinoma: reporte de un caso con resección quirúrgica exitosa

El insulinoma es un tumor endocrino del páncreas, el cual produce hiperinsulinismo y provoca disminución severa de la glucemia, con síntomas crónicos como desvanecimiento. Es más frecuente en varones y puede presentarse a cualquier edad, ya sea como neoplasias solitarias o múltiples, estas últimas conocidas por formar parte del grupo de neoplasias endocrinas múltiples tipo 1 (MEN 1). Los insulinomas son de rara presentación y requieren tratamiento quirúrgico resectivo; la resolución de los síntomas es el marcador de curación. En la presente publicación, se describe un caso de insulinoma en una mujer de 51 años, de presentación típica desde el punto de vista clínico, con síntomas y signos de hiperinsulinismo. Los exámenes de laboratorio indican un aumento de la secreción de insulina, mientras que las imágenes por resonancia magnética muestran características del insulinoma, donde se puede apreciar la tumoración pancreática. Este caso se trató mediante resección quirúrgica por medio de laparotomía exploratoria, utilizando la técnica de enucleación del tumor pancreático, la cual se describe al detalle en la publicación; no se presentaron complicaciones intraoperatorias ni posoperatorias, es decir, desde el punto de vista curativo, el resultado fue exitoso. Esta es la técnica quirúrgica que se emplea en el Hospital Nacional Arzobispo Loayza en Lima, Perú, ante casos como el descrito. Este tipo de neoplasia es muy poco común, por lo que se le debe considerar de alta sospecha y, en este caso, las imágenes fueron fundamentales para optar por la resección quirúrgica. En el hospital Arzobispo Loayza se han tratado otros casos de insulinoma mediante cirugía; asimismo, se ha presentado, al menos, un caso de nesidioblastosis, en donde no se pudo administrar un tratamiento adecuado al paciente.

Insulinoma is a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor that produces hyperinsulinism and causes a severe lowering of blood glucose levels with chronic symptoms such as fainting. It is more common in males and can occur at any age, either as solitary or multiple neoplasms, the latter known to be part of the multiple endocrine neoplasia, type 1 (MEN 1) group. Insulinomas are rare and require resective surgery, with symptoms resolution being the marker of recovery. This article describes a case of insulinoma in a 51-year-old woman with a clinically typical presentation and signs and symptoms of hyperinsulinism. Laboratory tests revealed increased insulin secretion, while magnetic resonance imaging showed features of insulinoma, where the pancreatic tumor could be seen. This case was treated by surgical resection of the pancreatic tumor during an exploratory laparotomy, using the enucleation technique, which is described in detail herein. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications, i.e., the result was successful in terms of health recovery. This surgical technique is used at Hospital Nacional Arzobispo Loayza in Lima, Peru, when facing cases such as the one described. This type of neoplasm is very uncommon, so it should be considered highly suspicious and, in this case, the images were essential for choosing the surgical resection. Other cases of insulinoma have been treated surgically at the Hospital; moreover at least one case of nesidioblastosis could not receive an adequate treatment.